Getting started with grants
The City of Belmont can help to connect you with a range of grants which could help you launch a new event, start a new project, or help you to explore opportunities for growth.
Here are some tips to help you through the grant application process.
Do your homework
Before you start your application, always check the closing date so you can plan enough time to gather the details you need and write your application.
Check the eligibilty criteria and aims of the grant carefully so you know that your organisation, project and what you need funding for are all allowed under the grant guidelines. If you are not sure, phone the contact person listed for the grant program.
Check the documentation you will need to provide. Australian Government and State Government grant applications usually require more than those from local governments or not-for-profit organisations. Make sure you include everything that is requested.
Depending on the grant, you may need to match the grant funding or make a financial contribution to the project. Check if this is the case, and whether your group, business or club can afford it.
Think from the grant assessor’s point of view
In your application, make sure you explain your group or business and/or your project clearly. Use plain English and avoid acronyms. Assume the person reading your application (the grant assessor) has never heard of your group/business.
Value for money is a major consideration in grant decisions. Make sure you cover the basics on what, why, where, when and who. Give the assessor enough relevant details about your project and how it will benefit your group and/or the wider community.
The grant assessor will have many applications to read through. Try to make yours interesting, choose a good name for your project and include all the information without making your application too lengthy.
Provide the right kind of information
Make sure you answer all the questions in a grant application – never leave a response blank. If a question doesn’t apply to you, you could include a brief reason why it doesn’t or write “not applicable” as a minimum.
It can be helpful to include a sentence or two about any relevant statistics or data you have about your community. If you need information about the City of Belmont community e.g. population or age groups, visit
id.community or
Remplan.
Pay special attention to the budget
Read carefully what is required for the budget section and make sure you include all information. Here are some tips for the budgeting section of a grant application:
- Don’t ask for more than the maximum grant value;
- Check if you need to exclude GST;
- Always check if one or more quotes are required;
- If you have funding from other sources for your project, include this information in your application – it could indicate that your project is worthy of support;
- In-kind contributions can usually be included. These are items or services that your group contributes that you would otherwise have to pay for (such as volunteer labour or a venue). These can add to the value of the project but not to your costs.
Check your application
Before you submit your application, proofread it carefully. Ask a colleague or someone who doesn’t know your project well to read it and provide constructive feedback.
Always make sure you have included the documentation required. Many application forms have a checklist, so use this before you submit your application.
Submit the application according to the grant guidelines – and try to allow extra time for the submission process to avoid any delays as the deadline approaches.
Managing your grant
If your grant application is successful, congratulations! Remember that your grant agreement is a legal document, which means you agree to complete your project and spend the grant money as outlined in your application and agreement.
If you need to make changes to your project e.g. what you spend the funds on, or if you need more time, always inform your grantor (who provided your grant), as they will need to approve changes.
Pay attention to the acquittal/reporting requirements and keep all receipts in a safe place. Send all reports by the due date as your grantor needs to be accountable for all funds they provide. Failure to do so could jeopardise your eligibility for future grants.
If your application is unsuccessful, ask for feedback. This will help you with your next application.
Further help with grant applications
For more ideas on grant applications, you might like to visit:
For more information, please email
grants@belmont.wa.gov.au or call the City’s Grants Officer on 9477 7191.